Your three options
- 01eSIMBought online before departure, activated on landing. No hardware, nothing to return, and usually the cheapest option for one or two people.
- 02Pocket Wi-FiA rented device shared by a group. Makes sense for families; means carrying and charging one more thing, and returning it.
- 03RoamingSimplest of all if your home plan includes Japan at a sensible rate. Check the fair-use cap before relying on it.
How much data you need
Maps, messaging and transit apps are light. If you are not streaming video, a modest allowance covers a two-week trip comfortably. Most travellers over-buy.
Public Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi exists in stations, convenience stores and many cafés, but sign-in flows vary and coverage is patchy in exactly the moments you need it. Treat it as a backup, not a plan.
